# Blind Bartimeus explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by George MacDonald.

## What happens

The poem retells the story of blind Bartimeus calling out to Jesus as he passes through Jericho. Despite his physical blindness, Bartimeus cries out for mercy, and Jesus heals him. The narrator then identifies with Bartimeus, confessing spiritual blindness and crying out to Jesus for healing and sight, ultimately experiencing restoration and choosing to follow him.

## Themes in this chapter

### Redemption and Grace

Bartimeus and the narrator both receive healing and salvation through crying out for mercy, illustrating grace extended to the blind and broken.

### Spiritual Struggle and Doubt

The narrator confesses profound spiritual blindness ('I am very blind; Nothing comes through into my mind'), yet persists in faith.

## Character check-ins

### Jesus Christ

The healer who passes through Jericho, hears the cry of blind Bartimeus, and restores his sight.

### Unknown

The speaker who identifies with Bartimeus, confessing spiritual blindness and crying out to Jesus for healing.

## Key lines

> As Jesus went into Jericho town, ’Twas darkness all, from toe to crown, About blind Bartimeus.

When Jesus entered Jericho, blind Bartimeus was completely enveloped in darkness.

_Sets the scene of physical blindness and the approach of the healer._

> O Jesus Christ, I am very blind; Nothing comes through into my mind; ’Tis well I am not dumb: Although I see thee not, nor hear, I cry because thou may’st be near: O son of Mary, come!

I confess my spiritual blindness and inability to perceive you, but I still cry out in hope that you are near, asking you to come.

_The narrator directly applies Bartimeus's story to their own spiritual condition._

> A hand is laid upon mine eyes; I hear, and hearken, see, and rise;— ’Tis He! I follow him!

Jesus touches my eyes, and I am healed—I hear, understand, see, and get up to follow him.

_Describes the moment of healing and the decision to become a disciple._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/blind-bartimeus
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_8_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters